Latest news with #Kansans
Yahoo
6 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Kansas launches virtual self-help center to aid court processes
TOPEKA, Kan. — A new virtual self-help center is helping connect Kansans with legal resources and information. PSU marks 50 years of MBA program with alumni celebration Pittsburg's 'Camp Now and Then' offers kids summer fun Doug Ball named interim president of Pittsburg State University Pittsburg fire recruits train in realistic house fire drill Same-day access walk-in clinic opens in Pittsburg Representatives of the Kansas Judicial Branch say the website, is designed to share information, forms, and tools to help Kansans with district court processes. Our goal was to create a reliable electronic resource for people who are navigating the court system on their own,' said Sarah Hoskinson, Chief of Access to Justice at the Office of Judicial Administration. 'It's to help people who don't understand or aren't familiar with court processes. It also helps district courts that serve people who come to court without an attorney.' Features of the self-help center homepage include an 'I need help with' section that officials say features on-demand resources provided by input from the Kansas legal community and data searches. Links provided on the homepage connect visitors with information like where to conduct legal research or the location of a court hearing. Officials also say this new service greatly benefits district courts, especially small or rural ones. 'Some district courts maintain their own self-help information, but only if they have staff to manage it,' Hoskinson said. 'The statewide virtual self-help center may fill an unmet need for some district courts, while creating efficiencies for others.' 'The committee discussed the need for this resource for some time. The Office of Judicial Administration Information Services team helped us turn that vision into reality. It is a practical and important resource for self-represented parties and other court users,' Chief Judge Kevin Berens said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Business Journals
3 days ago
- Health
- Business Journals
BCBSKS and KU Wichita Pediatrics partner to create a healthier future
The mission of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) goes beyond providing health insurance – it's about building healthier communities. One of the ways this is accomplished is through support of the Wichita Open, an event that transcends the game of golf. Through this event, the Wichita economy surges, with spectators investing more than $7 million in hotels, restaurants and activities during the week. Friends and neighbors unite to celebrate the accomplishments of amazing athletes. But, most importantly, this is the week Kansans come together to raise money for crucial health care programs for children in our community. For the third year, BCBSKS will serve as title sponsor for the Wichita Open on June 19-22 at Crestview Country Club. 'The reason we do this is simple: it's KU Wichita Pediatrics,' said Matt All, BCBSKS president and CEO. 'This is an organization that delivers life-changing medical care to Kansas families. By sponsoring this event, BCBSKS helps raise critical funds for pediatric health programs, strengthening community connections and making a meaningful impact on local children's health and well-being. This partnership ensures that children have greater access to the specialty care they need, right here in Kansas.' Investing in the future of Kansas For Kansans, the partnership with KU Wichita Pediatrics means investing in the future of Kansas by supporting the health and well-being of its youngest residents. Families shouldn't have to travel far or struggle to find high-quality pediatric care. Through this collaboration, BCBSKS helps make that a reality. The benefits of this partnership extend beyond immediate health care needs; it's about creating long-term health and success for our children and communities. 'There must be philanthropic support of pediatrics in order for a community to sustain comprehensive pediatric services,' said Dr. Brian Pate, professor and chair, Department of Pediatrics, KU School of Medicine-Wichita. 'One of the things that inspires me the most through the relationship with the Wichita Open is that we share the values that drive wellness for Kansas children. This partnership will allow us to better serve local families.' In prior years, funds received from the Wichita Open have helped support programming for KU Wichita Pediatrics, such as school-based health clinics, Kansas Kids Mental Health Access Program (KSKidsMAP), the Center for Research for Infant Birth & Survival (CRIBS) and the division of hematology and oncology. For BCBSKS, this partnership reflects their core philosophy of Kansans serving Kansans. 'We are deeply committed to the communities we serve, and working alongside KU Wichita Pediatrics allows us to fulfill that commitment in a tangible and lasting way,' said All. 'Together, we create a healthier Kansas for today and for generations to come.' expand Mental and behavioral health initiatives Mental and behavioral health is a critical part of overall well-being, and BCBSKS has seen the growing need for these services, especially for kids and families. They have partnered with KU Wichita Pediatrics to meet these needs in ways that make a real difference. One initiative is support of the Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program, which trains more mental health professionals in Kansas. This program addresses limited access to care, particularly in rural areas, bringing more help to more families. Investing in mental health education and training ensures Kansas communities have the resources they need to thrive. Additionally, BCBSKS supports Baby Talk, a vital program for moms that provides pregnant and postpartum women with the physical and emotional support they need. This initiative ensures both mom and baby have a strong, healthy start. The program includes educational resources, counseling and health care support, helping new mothers navigate the challenges of parenthood with confidence and care. Ensuring maternal health is paramount to the growth and development of the entire family unit. Holistic approach to health and wellness At the end of the day, BCBSKS is dedicated to caring for the whole person – mind and body – and ensuring Kansans have access to the care they need, when and where they need it. Partnerships like this not only address today's needs but also prepare for tomorrow by investing in long-term solutions for healthier communities. By focusing on holistic health, BCBSKS and KU Wichita Pediatrics are making strides toward a future where every Kansan can lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Ultimately, the partnership between BCBSKS and KU Wichita Pediatrics exemplifies the power of collaboration in fostering healthier communities. Through dedicated support and initiatives, this partnership underscores a shared commitment to ensuring every child in Kansas has access to the resources necessary for a thriving, healthy life. By coming together, BCBSKS and KU Wichita Pediatrics pave the way for a brighter and healthier tomorrow for all Kansans.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
State issues blue-green algae warnings for Kansas lakes
TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNW) — State health and wildlife officials have issued warnings for several Kansas lakes due to potentially toxic blue-green algae blooms, urging residents and visitors to stay alert while enjoying water activities this summer. Car crashes into Garden City home The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in coordination with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP), issued a public health advisory as part of its Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) response program, which runs each year from April through October. Current advisories include: Warning: Frazier Lake (Grant County) Gathering Pond (Geary County) Marion Reservoir (Marion County – status elevated May 30) Watch: Augusta Santa Fe Lake (Butler County – status lowered May 30) Lifted: Pony Creek Lake (Brown County) Officials say blue-green algae can appear as foam, scum, or paint on the water's surface, in colors ranging from blue and green to brown or red. Blooms can form quickly and may be harmful to humans and animals through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation. 'Symptoms from exposure may include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, sore throat, and fever,' KDHE said. 'If you or your pets come into contact with algae, rinse thoroughly with clean water.' The advisory outlines different safety levels: A Warning means harmful algae is expected or present. Swimming and water contact should be avoided, and pets should not drink or enter the water. A Watch indicates algae may be present. Water activities near visible blooms are discouraged, but boating and fishing are generally safe with precautions. A Hazard status—none currently in effect—signals extreme conditions and could lead to lake closures. KDHE encourages Kansans to report suspected blooms year-round and offers resources for identifying algae and staying safe at 'Blooms can be deadly for pets,' the agency warns. 'Dogs are especially vulnerable if they drink or come into contact with contaminated water or eat dried algae on the shore.' For updates, public advisories, and a map of affected lakes, visit the KDHE Harmful Algal Bloom page. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Goodland National Weather Service office exempt from hiring freeze
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — With Kansas in the middle of severe weather season, there has been a lot of concern over staffing cuts at the National Weather Service. Friday morning, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran said he has reassured the Goodland NWS office that it can hire more people. 'The Goodland NWS office is short-staffed and has been unable to fill vacant positions due to the hiring freeze, resulting in the office being closed overnight,' he said on social media. 'I spoke with NWS Director Ken Graham about the impact of these vacancies, and next month he plans to implement a temporary, rotating staff to keep the office open 24/7.' Earlier this year, the Trump administration mandated cuts and a hiring freeze that affected more than 1,000 jobs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Lawmakers in Washington said the layoffs included NWS meteorologists. National Weather Service staffing impacts Kansas KSN's Chief Meteorologist Lisa Teachman has noticed how the cuts have affected the Goodland office. 'The last couple of weeks, due to the staff shortage, they have not been updating certain products like they did, which is the result of the office being closed overnight,' she said. Despite the staff cuts, Teachman said the Goodland NWS did an incredible job on the tornado warnings the day of the Grinnell and Plevna tornadoes. 'Goodland, Dodge City and Wichita all did fabulous jobs of issuing timely and accurate warnings, even with all the staffing issues as seen here in Goodland,' Teachman said. 'We had no deaths and very few injuries. Considering the number of tornadoes and of EF-3 intensities that day, this was a job well done for Kansans under the 'Weather enterprise,' as I call it, including government, media, emergency management, and other safety support entities. This is a partnership built and grown together over decades.' Moran said the Goodland office can begin hiring meteorologists and weather forecasters. Rainfall amounts across Kansas 'While it will take time to re-open these job applications and hire the needed staff, this is a positive step in returning the Goodland NWS Office to 24/7 weather forecasting,' he said. Hundreds of people have responded to Moran's Facebook post. Many applaud the announcement, but others say that the cuts should never have happened and that all of NOAA's staff and funding should be fully restored. For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 Weather app by clicking here. To watch our shows live on our website, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
China shifts supply chains away from Kansas
Context: Video aired May 20. KANSAS (KSNT) – The U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) briefly blocked President Donald Trump from imposing certain tariffs under an emergency powers law. 27 News spoke to University of Kansas Distinguished Professor Raj Bhala on Thursday about the impact on Kansans. Bhala said the Court of International Trade was concerned that President Trump was acting beyond the scope of authority delegated to him under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The CIT found that the reasons for the tariffs were not considered 'an unusual and extraordinary threat'. 'Now the president has already appealed; there are some good grounds for appeal,' Bhala said. 'In addition, the president has other statutes available to him, and furthermore, Congress may pass certain bills authorizing him to oppose these reciprocity tariffs.' Fans travel all over Kansas for high school sports postseason The CIT's ruling on Wednesday came from a concern for unbounded presidential power amidst the reality that the US Constitution gives Congress the power to regulate trade, not the president. The court found that Trump had abused the IEEPA language. On Thursday, a federal appeals court delayed the CIT order to block President Donald Trump's tariffs, reinstating them for the time being. For Kansas businesses, Bhala said they should plan to continue the changes made following the tariffs in supply chain management, finding export markets, holding cash for tariffs and their use of warehouses. He recommended that businesses continue with their plans as if those tariffs were still in place. 'I should not assume the reciprocity tariffs are going to go away,' Bhala said. 'They may be postponed for a while but they will not go away. And we know this administration is dogged about its tariff policy and rectifying what it feels are injustices inflicted on the U.S., rightly or wrongly.' 27 News asked what can be expected for the appeal timeline. Bhala said it wouldn't take years, but could take months. Despite back and forth on the reciprocal tariffs, the steel and aluminum tariffs, the automotive tariffs and the first round of tariffs placed on China during Trump's first term are still in effect. There were more than 180 countries on the reciprocity tariff list. Those tariffs haven't been imposed yet, they were supposed to go into effect on July 8. Skull of one-ton ground sloth found in Kansas 'This is me speaking, the fundamental problem with Trump tariff policy is its lost the plot,' Bhala said. 'The plot has always been China. That's the strategic threat. And the first Trump administration was correct in focusing on China and igniting the trade war and the Biden administration continued its prosecution.' When President Donald Trump was inaugurated for the second time, he vastly expanded the trade war from being a China-US one to a global war. 'We see this pattern in other wars like Iraq, right?' Bhala said. 'I mean, mission creep, what's this about? WMDs or about building a democracy? In other words, he's taken on too much and then lost the key focus of what the real strategic threat is. And, in the process, alienated the very allies we need to isolate and decouple from China.' Regarding Kansas's agricultural exports to China, Bhala said that China has been diversifying its sources away from Kansas and the rest of the US. 'China is substituting Kansas wheat or Kansas soybeans or Kansas meat and finding suppliers in Brazil for example,' Bhala said. 'In other words, third-country exporters that produce what Kansas or Missouri produce. China is finding them and gradually shifting its supply chains to those other third countries. So, Kansas and Missouri farmers are losing market share in China.' According to the Kansas Department of Commerce, China was Kansas' fourth-largest export destination in 2023. The country imported $722 million in Kansas products in 2023. Between 2022 and 2023, China decoupled from Kansas exports by 35%, returning to 2021 levels. Topeka bridge to shut down for months China has imposed counter-tariffs on US goods, putting Midwest farmers at a disadvantage compared to countries that don't pay the extra cost of tariffs, according to Bhala. He said it puts Kansas in an unfair playing field. 27 News asked if Kansas could pick up the slack by exporting to other nations. 'Good luck in the short term,' Bhala responded. 'What's your only other billion-person market? Now, India is a good bet. But India is a much different kind of export proposition, you have high tariff barriers in India to protect small-scale Indian farmers.' Exporting to India faces economic trade barriers, cultural barriers, and there could be distribution difficulties in India due to its poor infrastructure. The state government can help by setting up trade missions and trade delegations to India to bring them to Kansas, but India isn't going to replace the Chinese market overnight. Bhala said it will probably take the state government and state industry associations to work on particular countries to piece together some of the lost market to China. 'Where else are you looking at that has a burgeoning population, with growing purchasing power, that wants to improve its diet? The answer is sub-Saharan Africa… Now how are we doing with our relationships with many sub-Saharan countries? Well, you know what they were branded the first term,' Bhala said. 'The expletive, and you know what's happened in the Oval Office with South Africa.' For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
